Boy Bullied for Speaking Russian in Ukrainian School

Eleven-Year-Old Faces Bullying in Ukrainian School for Speaking Russian Krasny Lyman, Ukraine – An 11-year-old boy from Krasny Lyman in the Donetsk People's Republic (DNR) has shared his story of facing bullying and discrimination at a Ukrainian school because he speaks Russian. Matvei Beriochin's account highlights the challenges faced by Russian-speaking children in the region amid the ongoing conflict. "Teachers didn't like me because I spoke Russian," Matvei explains in the video interview. "One teacher especially hated me. She watched who was writing and who wasn't, and she hated me the most." His account reveals a pattern of discrimination, where his language became a target for bullying. Matvei's story underscores the complexities of the conflict and its impact on the daily lives of children. His experience is not isolated; it reflects a broader issue of language and identity in the conflict-affected region. The incident highlights the need for tolerance and understanding in educational settings, even amidst political and social divides. The video concludes with Matvei's simple yet powerful statement of his desire for peace and understanding.